Ice age remains found in Scotchtown, N.Y., are not uncommon in that area, as seen in a recent discovery in a local yard.
In late September, a married couple visited Dr. Cory Harris, an archaeologist and chair of the behavioral sciences department at SUNY’s Orange County Community College, with a cardboard box containing a surprising find. Dr. Harris usually encounters mundane items brought in by people hoping for exciting discoveries, but this time was different.
The couple revealed two yellowed teeth from a mastodon, sparking a sense of excitement in Dr. Harris that he hadn’t felt in years. The well-preserved mastodon jaw discovery was announced by the New York State Department of Education, with scientists at the New York State Museum studying the artifact.
The couple, who found the mastodon jaw on their property near Scotchtown, N.Y., preferred to remain anonymous to avoid unwanted attention. The discovery was made when they noticed something protruding from the grass in their backyard.
Dr. Harris, with nearly 30 years of experience in archaeology, expressed his thrill at the find, reminiscent of the excitement that drew him to the field initially. The mastodon jaw discovery has generated interest among researchers and the public alike.
Mastodons were prehistoric mammals resembling elephants, and their fossils are valuable for understanding Earth’s ancient history. The discovery of the mastodon jaw adds to the scientific knowledge of these fascinating creatures and their presence in the region.
Dr. Harris and his team are working closely with the New York State Museum to analyze the mastodon jaw further and uncover more insights into the animal’s life and environment. The find highlights the importance of amateur discoveries in contributing to scientific research and expanding our understanding of the past.
The couple’s chance discovery has opened a new chapter in the study of mastodons in the region, offering a glimpse into the prehistoric world and the creatures that roamed the area thousands of years ago. Dr. Harris’s passion for archaeology has been reignited by this remarkable find, showcasing the enduring allure of uncovering ancient mysteries.
Source: The NY Times
